Styling Your Spring Session: Using San Diego's Beautiful Sunsets + Beaches as Your Guide
Hey there, fabulous friends!
I think we can all agree that it wouldn't be the worst thing for spring to arrive a little early here in San Diego. After a long stretch of rain, I am ready to soak up that warm golden goodness.
As a photographer who lives for the soft tones of the beach and all the golden sunsets, I can't wait to share some of my favorite tips for choosing the perfect pieces to style your spring sessions. So, grab your favorite shades and some sunscreen, because we're about to pretend that spring is already HERE!
Picture This...
Your sweet family, playing on the beach, drenched in the soft, golden light of the sunset. You can feel the sand on your toes and hear the serene ocean waves. Now imagine, that every member of your family is dressed in the cutest outfits and perfectly coordinated (without being too matchy-matchy). Everyone is having fun and no one is complaining because everyone's feeling their best while still being comfortable. Sounds amazing right?? Let me show you how to make styling your spring session a total breeze.
Start by Choosing a Color Palette
Coastal Neutrals
For those wanting a timeless feel for their images, you can never go wrong with neutrals. This palette evokes the laid-back and effortless charm of Southern California.
Sunset Hues
Want your photos to encompass the breathtaking views of Southern California's golden hour? Focus on warm + earthy tones. Choose colors like rust, and small pops of mustard yellow
Ocean Blues
Embrace the cool calming hues from the ocean itself. This palette is full of soft blues and greens, that will complement the ocean backdrop without being too bold.
Botanical Bliss
Bring the beauty of nature to life with fresh greens, soft yellows, and delicate florals that capture the essence of spring in full bloom.
Few More Tips
I always recommend that you start by choosing Mom's outfit first. Once you have mom taken care of, begin building everyone's outfits.
Consider the location. Keep your location in mind when choosing outfits, you may want to go barefoot on the beach, but you will definitely want shoes for some of my other outdoor locations.
Speaking of shoes... Yes, your shoes will be in the picture. Yes, you do need to make sure your shoes look clean and match the vibe of your outfits.
Stay true to your style! If you can't picture yourself in a long flowy dress, that's okay. You can still make your session look amazing with jeans if you style all the other pieces properly.
Don't try to match. The key is not to pick pieces that perfectly match. Instead, you want pieces that coordinate. Select pieces in different colors from your color palette, or combine complementary patterns and textures.
Styling for Moms
Flowy Dresses and Skirts: Embrace the light and airy feel of spring by opting for flowy dresses or skirts in soft pastel shades or floral prints that capture the season's essence.
Lightweight Fabrics: Choose breathable and lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, or chiffon to stay comfortable and cool during the spring session.
Wrap or Maxi Dresses: Consider wearing a flattering wrap dress or a flowing maxi dress that accentuates your silhouette while providing comfort and elegance for the photoshoot.
Layer with Cardigans or Denim Jackets: Add versatility and warmth to your outfit by layering with a lightweight cardigan or a classic denim jacket in coordinating colors or complementary shades.
Accessorize: Incorporate thoughtful jewelry like layered necklaces, or a statement ring or bracelet. to add a touch of interest.
Comfortable Footwear: Opt for comfortable footwear options such as sandals, espadrilles, or classic short leather boot that allow you to move freely and comfortably during the photoshoot.
Versatile Jumpsuits or Rompers: Consider wearing a jumpsuit or a playful romper in soft pastel tones or floral patterns for a modern and effortless spring look.
Natural and Fresh Makeup: Keep your makeup light and fresh with soft, neutral tones and dewy finishes that enhance your natural beauty and radiance in the spring sunlight.
Flowing Kimono or Shawls: Add texture and movement to your outfit with a flowing kimono or a chunky crochet shawl in coordinating colors or subtle patterns that add visual interest.
Styling For Dad
- Lightweight Layers: Opt for lightweight layers such as a linen shirt jacket, cotton cardigan, or chambray shirt that can be easily layered or removed to adapt to changing temperatures during the spring session.
- Coordinate with Family's Color Palette: Coordinate dad's outfit with the rest of the family's color palette to ensure visual harmony and cohesion in group portraits. Choose complementary hues and tones that enhance the overall aesthetic while allowing each family member to express their individual style.
- Classic Button-Down Shirts: Choose classic button-down shirts in light earth tones or subtle patterns such as gingham or stripes for a timeless and polished look that captures the essence of spring.
- Chinos or Khakis: Pair your shirts with tailored chinos or khaki pants in neutral tones like beige, tan, or light gray for a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe that complements the spring season.
- Casual Blazers: Want to elevate your outfit? Consider a casual blazer in a light and breathable fabric like cotton or linen, adding structure and refinement to your look without sacrificing comfort.
- Comfortable Footwear: Opt for comfortable footwear such as leather boots, boat shoes, or suede/leather sneakers that are stylish yet practical for walking and exploring during the spring photoshoot.
- Accessorize Thoughtfully: Add personality to your outfit with thoughtfully chosen accessories like a woven belt, fedora hat, or a stylish watch that complements your spring outfit.
Styling For Kids
- Light and Airy Fabrics: Opt for light and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or chambray to keep your kids comfortable during the spring session.
- Pastel Color Palette: Embrace the freshness of spring by incorporating soft pastel tones such as muted blue, dusty pink, sage green, or sunflower yellow into your kids' outfits.
- Flowy Dresses and Skirts: Dress your little ones in flowy dresses or rompers with floral prints or delicate patterns that capture the essence of springtime.
- Denim Delights: Pair denim jeans or shorts with crisp white tops or pastel-colored shirts for a classic and versatile spring look that never goes out of style.
- Mix Prints and Textures: Experiment with mixing different prints and textures like stripes, gingham, chunky knits, or eyelet lace to create visual interest and depth in your kids' outfits.
- Comfortable Footwear: Choose comfortable footwear such as sandals, canvas sneakers (no logos!), or espadrilles that allow your kids to run and play freely during the photoshoot.
- Layer with Light Jackets: Add layers with lightweight jackets or cardigans in soft hues like beige or light brown to keep your kids warm during cooler spring mornings or evenings.
- Accessorize with Florals: Incorporate floral accessories such as headbands, bonnets, hair clips, or bows to add a touch of whimsy and celebrate the blooming flowers of spring.
Welcome to my happy place!
I'm Tiffany, a San Diego-based family, maternity, & motherhood photographer, capturing moments drenched in golden sunlight. Consider me your guide for capturing the magic of your family's love.
With a passion driven by being a mom myself, I specialize in candid connections & genuine laughter. As a storyteller, I thrive on capturing your beachside giggles or sun-kissed adventures.
